Vitamin D Deficiency and Associated Diseases
Discover the relation between vitamin D and diseases. Causes, signs, and symptoms of vitamin D deficiency and management & prevention of vitamin D deficiency.
Written by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam
Reviewed by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula MBBS
Last updated on 3rd Aug, 2025
Introduction
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in keeping our bones, muscles, and immune system healthy. Despite its importance, many people suffer from Vitamin D deficiency without even realising it. This condition can lead to various health problems if left untreated.
In this article, we’ll discuss:
What is Vitamin D deficiency?
Common symptoms
Causes and risk factors
Diseases linked to low Vitamin D levels
How to prevent and manage deficiency?
What is Vitamin D Deficiency?
Vitamin D deficiency occurs when your body doesn’t get enough of this vital nutrient. Unlike other vitamins, Vitamin D acts like a hormone and helps your body absorb calcium, which is necessary for strong bones.
Your body produces Vitamin D when your skin is exposed to sunlight. You can also get it from certain foods and supplements. However, many people don’t get enough sunlight or consume sufficient Vitamin D-rich foods, leading to deficiency.
Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency
Many people with Vitamin D deficiency don’t experience obvious symptoms at first. However, over time, it can lead to:
Fatigue and tiredness
Bone and back pain
Muscle weakness or cramps
Frequent infections (due to weakened immunity)
Mood changes (such as depression or anxiety)
Slow wound healing
Hair loss
If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to get your Vitamin D levels checked.
Consult Top Nutritionists For More Benefits
What Causes Vitamin D Deficiency?
Several factors can contribute to low Vitamin D levels:
1. Lack of Sunlight
Spending too much time indoors
Wearing sunscreen all the time (while sunscreen is important, it can block Vitamin D production)
Living in regions with long winters or little sunlight
2. Poor Diet
Not eating enough Vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish (salmon, tuna), egg yolks, fortified milk, and mushrooms
3. Darker Skin Tone
Melanin (the pigment in skin) reduces the skin’s ability to produce Vitamin D from sunlight
4. Age
Older adults have thinner skin and may produce less Vitamin D
5. Medical Conditions
Digestive disorders (like Crohn’s disease or celiac disease) that affect nutrient absorption
Obesity (Vitamin D gets stored in fat, making less available for the body)
Kidney or liver diseases (they help convert Vitamin D into its active form)
Diseases Linked to Vitamin D Deficiency
Long-term deficiency can contribute to serious health problems, including:
1. Osteoporosis & Bone Disorders
Weak, brittle bones increase the risk of fractures
Rickets (in children) – soft, deformed bones
Osteomalacia (in adults) – bone softening
2. Weakened Immune System
More frequent colds, flu, and infections
Increased risk of autoimmune diseases
3. Heart Disease & High Blood Pressure
Low Vitamin D may contribute to cardiovascular problems
4. Diabetes
Linked to poor insulin sensitivity
5. Depression & Mood Disorders
Vitamin D helps regulate brain function
6. Chronic Pain & Muscle Weakness
Can lead to persistent aches and reduced mobility
How to Prevent & Manage Vitamin D Deficiency
1. Get Safe Sun Exposure
Spend 10-30 minutes in sunlight (without sunscreen) at least 3 times a week
Best time: Morning (before 10 AM) or late afternoon (after 4 PM)
2. Eat Vitamin D-Rich Foods
Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines)
Egg yolks
Fortified milk, cereals, and orange juice
Mushrooms (exposed to sunlight)
3. Take Supplements (If Needed)
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is more effective than D2
Consult a doctor for the right dosage
4. Exercise Regularly
Weight-bearing exercises (walking, jogging) help strengthen bones
5. Get Tested
A simple blood test (25-hydroxy Vitamin D test) can check your levels
Normal range: 30-50 ng/mL
Deficiency: Below 20 ng/mL
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience persistent fatigue, bone pain, or frequent illnesses, consult a doctor. They may recommend:
Blood tests
Supplements or dietary changes
Treatment for underlying conditions
Final Thoughts
Vitamin D deficiency is common but often overlooked. By making small changes—like getting more sunlight, eating the right foods, and taking supplements if needed—you can protect your bones, immunity, and overall health.
Consult Top Nutritionists
Consult Top Nutritionists For More Benefits
Dr. Bhukya Pavan Kalyan
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS DNB Paediatrics
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Mrs Sneha P V
Nutritionist
10 Years • Master of science in Food and Nutrition
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Dr. Ramalinga Reddy
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS MD General medicine
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dt. Ila Sharma
Clinical Nutritionist
18 Years • Master in food & Nutrition
Gurugram
VIPUL GREENS - SOCIETY CLINIC, Gurugram
Dr Sumanth R
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Consult Top Nutritionists
Dr. Bhukya Pavan Kalyan
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS DNB Paediatrics
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Mrs Sneha P V
Nutritionist
10 Years • Master of science in Food and Nutrition
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Dr. Ramalinga Reddy
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS MD General medicine
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dt. Ila Sharma
Clinical Nutritionist
18 Years • Master in food & Nutrition
Gurugram
VIPUL GREENS - SOCIETY CLINIC, Gurugram
Dr Sumanth R
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
